Verbena is an excellent choice for attracting hummingbirds, provided the right varieties are selected and grown under appropriate conditions. This genus of flowering plants, which includes both annual and perennial species, offers a consistent, high-quality nectar source that meets the high energy demands of these birds. Many verbena cultivars bloom over an extended season, making them a dependable fuel stop for hummingbirds, especially during migration periods.
The Biological Mechanism of Attraction
Hummingbirds possess a specialized sensory system that guides them toward energy-rich floral sources. The visual appeal of verbena is a primary draw, as the birds are attracted to bright colors, particularly shades of red, pink, and purple. These colors signal high-quality nectar; the birds’ vision extends into the ultraviolet spectrum, allowing them to spot blooms easily against green foliage.
The structure of the verbena flower cluster, composed of numerous small florets, is adapted to the hummingbird’s hovering style of feeding. These tiny, often tubular flowers lack the broad landing platform required by bees and butterflies. This forces the bird to hover while inserting its long beak, reserving the nectar for the hummingbird, which then acts as the plant’s primary pollinator.
The quality of the nectar keeps the bird returning for multiple visits. Hummingbirds require a nectar solution with a sugar concentration that ranges from 20 to 25% sucrose to sustain their rapid metabolism. Verbena varieties that attract hummingbirds reliably offer this concentration, providing a quick and efficient energy boost.
Identifying the Most Effective Verbena Varieties
The effectiveness of verbena depends on choosing a variety with an upright growth habit and a long bloom time. Verbena bonariensis, or Tall Verbena, is a reliable attractant due to its height (four to six feet) and its airy clusters of purple flowers. This height allows hummingbirds easy, unobstructed access to the blooms while hovering.
A popular cultivar is ‘Meteor Shower’, which maintains the height and attractiveness of Verbena bonariensis but is more compact and less prone to self-seeding. For container gardening, hybrid varieties such as the Superbena series, including ‘Firehouse Purple’ and ‘Quartz Burgundy’, are recommended. These hybrids are bred for continuous blooming and improved resistance to mildew, ensuring a steady nectar supply throughout the summer and fall.
In contrast, many low-growing, trailing verbena types, often used as ground cover, are less effective at attracting hummingbirds. While they produce nectar, their flower clusters are smaller and positioned closer to the ground, making them less visible and accessible to hovering birds. Gardeners should prioritize the tall, upright species and the vibrant, continuously blooming hybrid cultivars.
Cultivation Tips for Maximizing Hummingbird Visits
To ensure verbena produces nectar-rich flowers, proper horticultural care is necessary. The plants thrive in full sun, requiring a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to support continuous flowering. Verbena also demands well-drained soil, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and decrease plant vigor.
One effective way to encourage regular hummingbird activity is to plant verbena in large, noticeable groupings. Mass planting, or clustering three or more plants together, creates a highly visible target that hummingbirds can easily spot. This density of blooms signals a substantial food reward, encouraging the birds to stop and feed.
Maintenance practices are important for sustaining the bloom cycle. Regular deadheading or pruning of spent flower clusters stimulates the plant to produce new blooms, extending the nectar flow late into the season. Positioning verbena near tall shrubs, trees, or a trellis provides perching areas for the birds to rest between their frequent feeding sessions.